About Our Primary School

St Nicholas’ Parochial School is a co-educational, child-centred school with a long tradition of serving the youth of Galway. It is located in the heart of Galway City in Waterside, Woodquay. It is situated beside the Town Hall Theatre and is within close walking distance of the University of Galway and the hospital (UHG). This Church of Ireland School is the Parish School of St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church.

Our Primary school aims to provide an opportunity for each child to reach his/her potential in a co-educational setting and friendly atmosphere. It also aims to develop in each child the capacity to think clearly, creatively and critically and is a place where moral values and civic responsibility are nurtured and protected.

The Irish Primary Curriculum is delivered in an integrated manner, respective and appreciative of different religious affiliations and of different nationalities of the world. Facilities are available for children who wish to make their First Holy Communion and Confirmation.

Due to the central location of our Galway City Primary School (beside the Town Hall Theatre), our pupils have the opportunity to attend many different educational events within the city. The children regularly visit the Town Hall Theatre, Dubray Book Shop, The Black Box Theatre, The Galway City Museum, The City Library, Woodquay Park, The Plots (football pitch), The University, The Hospital and many other locations of interest.

Our school also offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities such as Swimming, Hockey, Drama, Chinese, French, Zumba, Ladybirds, Brownies, Music and Yoga.

St. Nicholas’ have an After School Facility in the school which facilitates homework and provides a range of activities.

The majority of the sixth class pupils transfer to local secondary schools in the Galway area.

School hours are as follows: 

Infants Classes: 8.30am to 1.20pm 

First Class –  Sixth Class: 8.30am to 2.20pm

ENROLMENT

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What’s Happening?

Exciting New Book Haul!

Exciting New Book Haul!

Another amazing book haul from the wonderful blogger and book reviewer Mary Esther Judy! – The perfect afternoon reading our new books! #WeLoveBooks #HiddenGem #HeartOfGalwayCity

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Rainbow Circles

Rainbow Circles

A very busy morning in this room experimenting with water, food colouring and kitchen paper to create rainbow circles!!! Teamwork, Dream Work!!! #STEM #HandsOn #ActiveLearning

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The Wizard of Oz

The Wizard of Oz

We were absolutely delighted to be invited to an outstanding performance of The Wizard of Oz in Educate Together Secondary School today. The children were captivated from start to finish — from the amazing talent on stage to the vibrant sets and songs!  A huge...

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Testimonials

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St. Nicholas’ is a wonderful school because it is more than a school, it is a community. it is not only a place that encourages parental involvement but also equips parents to participate in their child’s educational experience. My child is more than a number but rather a valued member of St. Nicholas’ Parochial community.

October 5, 2015

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St. Nicholas’ Parochial School is a great school because of the friendly environment, qualified staff that are so helpful and understanding. St. Nicholas’ School has plenty of extra activities that the children can choose from.

October 5, 2015

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Our children have thrived at St Nicholas's. The small school size means the school is like a family. Teachers really know all the children, and the classes mix and take care of each other. It's a very secure environment which gives them great confidence as they grow and learn, and also for when they head on to secondary school and beyond.

 

February 7, 2024

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"From the minute I stepped in the doors of St Nicholas' School for the open day I knew it was a very special place and my mind was instantly made up that it was the right school for my children. Three of my children attend now and they adore the school, they look forward to going every day. The children all receive excellent attention from their teachers, and this can be seen in their progress made throughout the year. I would have absolutely no question in recommending this school to any potential students" (Brooke)

October 7, 2021

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St Nicolas’ is a second home for our daughter. It really is! She absolutely loves her time in School! The school is unique! Small and individual teaching. Every Child feels special and important! (Alicja)

October 7, 2021

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We really appreciate all the hard work and dedication everyone at St. Nicholas’ puts into making sure our children have such a positive and nurturing start to their learning journey. We are so pleased with how well our daughter has settled and the progress she has already made. Our younger son is starting school this coming September and we are thrilled that he was accepted to St. Nicholas’ where friends are made and teachers become your family.  (Magda and Kenny)

 

February 8, 2024

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"St Nicholas' Parochial School is an outstanding school where children thrive. It has a community feel and caring ethos.  The staff create a vibrant learning environment giving the children an excellent education and foundation for the future.  Our two children turn up each day with a smile." Dr Simon Western

October 9, 2025

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The teachers at St. Nicholas' are like family. My children would never have gotten such individual attention at any other school. The support we received was life changing for our family.

February 7, 2024

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St. Nicholas’ School is not just about education it is so much more than that. Love, kindness, and respect are so prevalent in this school. Teachers are accessible & always available to listen and give advice. The level of attention in developing a whole student is second to none. (Emma)

October 7, 2021

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As our daughter finishes her time at this beautiful primary school, we’re feeling incredibly grateful for the years she’s spent here. From the very beginning, the school has felt like a second home – warm, welcoming, and full of heart.

The teachers are truly passionate about what they do. Their dedication, patience, and genuine care for the children have made a lasting impact on our daughter’s learning and confidence. It’s clear that they go above and beyond, not just to teach, but to truly connect with each child.

What makes this school even more special is the sense of community. The other parents have been so kind and supportive – it really does feel like everyone is looking out for each other. Whether it’s lending a hand, sharing a smile at drop-off, or organising little get-togethers, there's a real spirit of togetherness.

I am very happy that my son will continue his education in this school as he still has few more years to go - otherwise we would miss the small, close-knit environment and the joyful atmosphere that fills the school each day. It’s a place where children are not only educated but also truly cared for. We couldn’t have asked for a better start to our daughter’s school journey. Alicja

October 9, 2025

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St. Nicholas' Parochial School is an incredibly special place. Thankfully we discovered it in 2022 and our son entered in fourth class. He spent three wonderful years in a safe, nurturing school where he was seen, heard and looked after in an exceptional way. The Principal Wendy Lynch and her staff work together with the parents in a very special way to give the students a well-rounded academic, cultural and fun education that prepares them for life. They ensured that our son was prepared for secondary school and have set him up for the rest of his life. We are eternally grateful for that. Our daughter is now in 2nd class and could not be happier. She tells me regularly that her teacher Ms. McLoughlin is like her second Mom and that she is 'an angel sent down from heaven'! What more could a parent ask for! Thank you St. Nicholas' Parochial School for being such a genuinely amazing positive part of our lives. Eimear Butler and John Royliston

October 15, 2025

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St. Nicholas’ Parochial School is a very good school. They have a unique way of teaching their pupils in such a way that all their students are very prepared academically and morally. Since my daughter was transferred to the school I have seen a lot of improvement. All of the teachers are really friendly. (Anthony)

April 15, 2018

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St Nicholas' is a very welcoming, warm and friendly environment, evident from the moment you walk through the door. Children arrive in the morning with smiles on their faces and they're still there when they leave at the end of the day. Having recently moved to Galway, our children have settled extremely well into life at St Nicholas', which has been made all the easier by the supportive staff and their class peers. Visits to the museum and the theatre ensure that learning is not just confined to the classroom. The children at St Nicholas' are made to feel loved, safe and supported and this enables them to enjoy themselves, eager to learn, curious and develop, academically, socially and emotionally. Éanna

October 9, 2025

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Both our daughters have their primary education at St Nicholas' Parochial School, and it's hard to imagine anywhere better. The children are nurtured and guided by a small but stellar staff of consummate professionals, whose dedication to the well-being and advancement of the children in their care is immediately evident. The children learn in a rich environment.  There is a warmth and radiance in the school's atmosphere, complemented by the closeness conferred by the school's small size. The children all know each other, from junior infants right up to sixth class; it generates the feeling more of a family than of an institution. The juniors are all allocated a buddy from the senior classes, guaranteeing an experience of safety and solidarity throughout the age ranges.  A unique gem of a school, in the heart of Galway City. We're very fortunate to have it.

 

 

February 7, 2024

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As parents of two children, a boy and girl, attending St Nicholas school, we cannot speak highly enough of the school.  This school is a real community, it has a lively family feeling, with staff who are 100% committed and wonderful teachers as well. Our children love going to school, and both are flourishing educationally and socially. We are delighted by the school's diversity, celebrated at their international days, and we believe this multiculturalism enriches our children's experience and prepares them well for the future. This Church of Ireland school instils a strong caring ethic, yet shares this without dogma, and is open and welcoming to those of all faiths and none. This school is a wonderful and hidden gem in Galway.  Agata 

 

February 6, 2024

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We moved to Galway last summer, and we enrolled our youngest 2 children into St Nicholas Parochial School. From the minute we first contacted the school, our family was met with kindness, inclusion and support. Our children run into school everyday, excited about the day ahead. The small class sizes and the incredible teachers make for such a nurturing learning experience for our children. I’ve never before encountered such a diverse, inclusive, fun, loving and caring environment for children. We feel honoured to be part of the St Nicholas’s community and grateful everyday that our children get to experience the wonder that is the small school with the big heart. (Parent)

 

February 9, 2024

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St. Nicholas’ is more than a school to us. It’s a community where our children are nurtured and loved, with afterschool on the premises, extracurricular activities near by and amazing teachers and staff. It is such a wonderful environment for our children to be educated in, celebrating diversity and individuality. Gail Power

October 8, 2025

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Our daughter is currently coming to the end of her time in St Nicholas' and we can think of no better place for her to have spent such formative years. The school is like an extended family for the students and the friendships that are established between students from differing year groups is such a special and unique experience. We will leave St Nicholas' with a heavy heart but eternally grateful for the time that our daughter has spent here. Phil Clapperton

October 8, 2025

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A lovely, friendly atmosphere; children and pupils happy to be there. What is really nice is that children from different age groups all know each other. My daughter says: “There are no bullies in our school!” The small size of the school means each child gets plenty of attention. (Eavan)

April 15, 2018

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St Nicholas Parochial School is a gem. It's a happy, friendly, and beautiful school with small classes and great teachers. Having been part of the school community for several years, I am very happy to recommend it to any parent and especially those with children about to start Junior Infants and hoping to find a warm and nurturing environment for their little ones.

 

 

 

 

 

 

February 8, 2024